Wike Orders Demolition of Buildings Blocking Abuja Waterways

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has said buildings found to be obstructing waterways and drainage channels in Abuja will be demolished, with the exercise expected to begin before the weekend.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory made the announcement after inspecting areas affected by flooding in parts of Abuja following heavy rainfall.

Wike said structures found to be blocking designated water channels would be removed, regardless of the status or influence of their owners.

According to the minister, some of the affected properties are allegedly owned by prominent individuals, including serving senators.

“Between today and Saturday, the buildings blocking the waterways in Abuja will be brought down,” Wike said.

He added that the authorities would demolish houses found on water channels, regardless of who owns them.

“Some of them are owned by Senators and big men. We will demolish all the houses found on the water channels, and heaven will not fall,” he said.

Wike Inspects Flood-Affected Areas

The announcement followed Wike’s inspection of locations affected by flooding in the Federal Capital Territory.

Heavy rainfall has raised concerns about flooding in some parts of Abuja, prompting renewed attention to drainage systems and structures located around waterways.

The FCT administration has increasingly focused on drainage and flood-control measures as part of efforts to reduce the impact of heavy rainfall across the capital.

Minister Warns Property Owners

Wike’s statement signals a tougher approach toward buildings identified by the authorities as obstructing natural waterways or designated drainage channels.

The minister did not exempt properties belonging to influential individuals, stressing that ownership status would not prevent enforcement where structures are found to be blocking water channels.

The planned demolition, according to the minister, is expected to take place between the time of his announcement and Saturday.

Further details on the specific locations and properties affected are expected from the relevant FCT authorities.

Why the Move Matters

Blocked waterways can restrict the movement of stormwater and contribute to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.

The planned enforcement is therefore likely to attract significant public attention, particularly from property owners and residents in areas identified by authorities as being affected by obstructed drainage channels.

The FCT administration is expected to provide further information as the enforcement exercise progresses